RUUD van Nistelrooy last night admitted Manchester United and Arsenal cannot afford to allow their FA Cup final showdown to descend into an ugly grudge match.

The two sides have become the fiercest of enemies this season, with a complete breakdown in the relationship between Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger.

Van Nistelrooy himself was banned for three games for violent conduct after raking his studs down Ashley Cole's leg when United beat Arsenal 2-0 last October to end their 49-game unbeaten run.

The fall-out from that explosive encounter sparked the infamous Battle of the Buffet, which saw Fergie pelted with food thrown by Arsenal players.

But van Nistelrooy, who scored twice against Newcastle to book United's place in the final, appealed for calm.

"It's going to be a great final, the one that everybody wants," said the Dutchman. "There is a history between the two clubs and there have been problems between us.

"But the whole world will be watching the final and let's hope it is a great football spectacle, a great occasion for the game."

Van Nistelrooy finally ended his eight-game goal drought with his two strikes against Newcastle and added: "It was great to finally score. It was a big occasion, an important moment and I can build on it.